Effects of fluid restriction on upper and lower body strength and hydration status in amateur rugby players

Background Maximum strength is negatively affected by hypohydration. Previous studies have used exercise heat stress or passive dehydration methods such as heat exposure to manipulate hydration status. Such methods induce elevations in muscle temperature that impair muscle contractile properties hence exacerbating the negative effects of dehydration on strength (Maughan, 2003). Purpose To assess the effects of 6 hrs of fluid deprivation on maximum strength. Methods 10 male collegiate rugby players (mean ± SD; age: 22 ± 2.7 years, body mass: 91.4 ± 8.5 kg, stature: 182.5 ± 12. 5 cm